Getting lost in han oi

Getting lost in Vietnam is apparently an easy thing to do even if you know where you are going. Since this section of the city has no real pattern to it, it is a maze of highways, secondary streets,  side streets and  alleys that are often not labeled, or the labels are few and far between. 

We got lost on the way to the WUSC office, which is about a ten or so minute walk from out hotel.  We ended up missing a turn and ended up a wee bit past where we should have been.  Overall it wasn’t to frustrating of an experience, since we had a pretty good idea as to where we had to go, and how to get there… It was just irritating since none of the streets had names, and most of the secondary or tertiary streets are not on the map. Asking for directions is also difficult, since there is a bit of a language barrier – despite having a fairly decent translation book. We did eventually make it to the WUSC office, but we where a bit late, and because of the constant rain yesterday – extremely wet. 

On the Brightside, getting lost and finding your way is one of the better ways of learning about new places, since it forces you to look and remember landmarks.  You also get  to see more of the city, then you would get just walking around your immediate area. 

Overall, this time getting lost wasn’t that bad of an experience.

After the Meeting, our larger group broke off and went for a bit of a wander around – shopping mostly. I feel that I am going to have a hard time finding readymade clothing that will fit me here, since the majority of the population is a foot to a foot and half shorter than me… and much much thinner.

I don’t think I will ever find shoes for me here.

I am still looking for a tailor – but no joy yet.

I was, somewhat successful though – and found some shorts and two shirts that fit fairly well. 

On the bright side, this city seems to be full of cheap originals – and apparently really nice, well made knock offs.  The girls seem to be interested in these things – but it really isn’t my cup of tea. I do find it interesting though, that the girls seem to get excited for a really well made knock off…

I keep meaning to upload pictures, but it just doesn’t seem to happen…. Mostly because the internet here is kinda dodgy. But rest assured once I get around to it… there will be plenty of pictures.